The worm uses the addresses to send infected email messages, and frequently mimics (or spoofs) the 'From' addresses in later email messages so that those infected messages seem to be from someone you know. The worm scans the infected computer for files, such as address books or temporary webpages, that contain email addresses. Most worms begin as email attachments that infect a computer when they're opened. What is a worm?Ī worm is computer code that spreads without user interaction. Tip: For information about the symptoms of a computer virus, go to the Microsoft PC Security website.

They can be hidden in pirated software or in other files or programs that you might download. Computer viruses also spread through downloads on the Internet. Viruses can be disguised as attachments of funny images, greeting cards, or audio and video files.

Therefore, you must never open an email attachment unless you know who sent the message or you are expecting the email attachment. A computer virus might corrupt or delete data on a computer, use an email program to spread the virus to other computers, or even delete everything on the hard disk.Ĭomputer viruses are frequently spread by attachments in email messages or by instant messaging messages. Examples of malware include the following:Ī computer virus is a small software program that spreads from one computer to another and interferes with computer operation. Malware is a term that is used for malicious software that is designed to do damage or unwanted actions to a computer system. Windows 7 Enterprise Windows 7 Home Basic Windows 7 Home Premium Windows 7 Professional Windows 7 Starter Windows 7 Ultimate More.

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